tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9579305716169254282024-03-13T03:02:03.541-07:00That's so asian!Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-40095763927226695732010-08-17T21:17:00.000-07:002011-12-26T07:47:11.617-08:00Summer of Cupcakes<div style="text-align: left;">True, I have done a little bit of neglecting this summer from my blog, but fear you not! That doesn't mean that I have stop baking. In fact, each of the following cupcakes were inspired by different events from the past three months!</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Cupcake #1: <a href="http://www.grouprecipes.com/60347/mango-cupcakes.html">Mangolicious</a> (click for recipe)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This summer, I had my fill of delicious fruits when I went back to Taiwan. Nothing beats their delicious mangoes that were bigger than the size of my head. Needless to say, when I came back to the States, I had a large void to fill! Here's what came out:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/TGtfuddHmQI/AAAAAAAAAcI/yXmpkXp-3wk/s1600/Mango+Cream+Cupcakes+(4).JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/TGtfuddHmQI/AAAAAAAAAcI/yXmpkXp-3wk/s400/Mango+Cream+Cupcakes+(4).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506600221175945474" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Definitely an interesting cupcake! You'll have to ask Tammy what she thought of them. :) I personally prefer the actual fruit.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><b>Cupcake #2: <a href="http://annies-eats.com/2010/05/04/margarita-cupcakes/">The Margarita Cupcake</a> (click for recipe)</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>I had the opportunity to teach a graduate course at Aurora University this summer, which meant no more high schoolers (temporarily, of course)! This called for our adult version of the key lime cupcake: the margarita cupcake! It's basically a lime scented cupcake with a tequila infused buttercream frosting. The verdict was that there wasn't enough tequila in the frosting. Figures. ;)</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/TGtf6y-X5xI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/enN8xniSagE/s400/Margarita+Cupcakes+(12).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506600433111000850" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">The class proved to be oodles of fun to teach, partially because I could test out my cupcake recipes on them! ;)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><b>Cupcake #3: The <a href="http://www.bhg.com/recipe/desserts/delicious-lemon-cupcakes/">Hannah Lemontana</a> Cupcake</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">This cupcake's story is somewhat bittersweet, as it was created in dedication to my <a href="http://hannahdays.wordpress.com/">BFF</a>, Hannah, moving away to the Big Apple only a few weeks ago. At her cupcake crawl bachlorette party, she voted the lemon cupcake to be her fave. So, out came this delicious lemon cupcake filled and topped with a lemon buttercream frosting. Thanks David for the creative name! :)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/TGtgbmXT7vI/AAAAAAAAAcY/AziwXLaFjrM/s400/Hannah+Lemontana+Cupcakes+(1).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506600996661620466" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Just so you can see its inerts:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/TGtnIh3SgbI/AAAAAAAAAcg/yyEmZvP711A/s400/Hannah+Lemontana+Cupcakes+(3).JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506608365617447346" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">So despite the fact that I haven't been blogging, at least you can keep up with my summer by checking out the stories behind each cupcake. That's pretty much the last three months in a nutshell. :)</span></div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-53384853148372259462010-07-11T19:06:00.000-07:002010-08-18T15:58:27.829-07:00A Purple and Yellow Event<div style="text-align: left;">Who knew that little Mac was ready to become a Big Mac? (Don't kill me, E! :P)</div><br /><div><a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/">Ellen</a>'s son, Mac, has graduated and is going to move onto grad school at Louisiana State University! The excitement called for a party. The party called for cupcakes. Thus, the party called for Jeanette. (Those last few sentences could almost have been fashioned into logic statements for my Geometry kids! Inductive reasoning, anyone?)</div><br /><div> </div><div>The inspiration: LSU's school colors, purple and yellow. <a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/">Ellen</a> originally requested mini cupcakes with purple and yellow frosting. Knowing me, I spent several days thinking about how I could make purple and yellow cupcakes in a different way. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>The result: <a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1571446">Blueberry Lemon Cupcakes</a> (Get it??). Follow the link to see the recipe! I didn't freeze the blueberries, and I made a lemon buttercream frosting (because I didn't have cream cheese). </div><div><br /></div><div><div>I made two batches because I had forgotten the request for mini ones, so here are the big ones:</div></div><div><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/TDt0rB9vc8I/AAAAAAAAAbc/y1q5R2OCJMc/s400/DSCN4408.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493112453119046594" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately, I forgot to take a picture of the mini ones. But, here is a picture of how I added the blueberries in the minis. I had to crush up blueberries and swirl them into the cupcake for the purple effect:</div><div><br /></div><div><div></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/TDt1_-nn80I/AAAAAAAAAbs/UGIOcEWUwYw/s400/DSCN4402.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493113912509854530" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div>Congratulations, Mac :)</div><div><div> </div></div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-91869813477714416922010-06-12T20:17:00.001-07:002010-06-14T20:13:08.616-07:00There's something about summerSummer is wonderful in so many ways. I get to catch up with people that didn't know I existed during the school year, embark on new baking endeavors, enjoy a conglomerate of fresh fruits, celebrate my nth birthday (this year it's 3^3), and finally post on a blog that I have neglected for nearly a year.<br /><div></div><div><br /></div><div>Inspiration in the summer is easy: open the refrigerator, and pick your favorite colors! I chose the following color palette: </div><div><br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482097337714668066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/TBRSe7aY8iI/AAAAAAAAAak/vNgDPo7sBHc/s320/Strawblime+Cupcakes+(3).JPG" border="0" /> <div>Here is the newest creation: "<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/strawberry-lime-stuffed-cupcakes-recipe/index.html">Strawblime Cupcakes</a>," a recipe which I adapted from the Food Network. I added lime zest into the actual cupcake, and then added butter into the icing to make it more of a frosting. I also dipped the strawberry into the frosting before inserting it into the cupcake! The follow picture shows chocolate mint garnish, thanks to Hans and Maggie!</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482098123508638658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/TBRTMquRY8I/AAAAAAAAAas/KRz4sRTJqhI/s320/Strawblime+Cupcakes+(11).JPG" border="0" /><br />Photo courtesy of Fishie Ling <><<br /><br />Here's to a great start to the summer! :)<br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-48376587471227883242009-08-15T10:00:00.000-07:002009-08-15T21:00:32.156-07:00Take me out to the ball game<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoeAW2m6UdI/AAAAAAAAAZo/mc7RMZklmaM/s1600-h/Draw+Cubs+C+(2).JPG"></a><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div>I have many friends who are Cubs fans. I also have many friends who are White Sox fans. Despite what you might think after this post, fear not - I am a fan of neither team. (I only grew up a Mets fan because I wanted to be just like my brother when I was little!) :)<br /><div><br /></div><div><span style="color:#ff0000;">Laurie Ryan</span> and <span style="color:#3333ff;">Nathan</span> are both HUGE Cubs fans, and their birthdays sandwich August 16th. The creation: "Cub-cakes". I enjoy this name very much. :)<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370394046181267698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sod47nKB2PI/AAAAAAAAAYo/0ox-ao_V0WI/s400/Finished+Product+(4).JPG" border="0" />I got the inspiration by searching on google images! Some people are ridiculouslycreative.<br /><br />If you're curious for the recipe, I just followed <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/red-velvet-cupcakes-with-cream-cheese-frosting-recipe/index.html"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Paula Deen's red velvet recipe</span></a>. <em><span style="font-size:85%;">Note: I halved the cream cheese frosting recipe and still had leftover! Also, the cupcakes were a bit greasy...<br /></span></em><br /><strong>24 Red Velvet Cupcakes</strong> <em><br /></em>2.5 C flour<br />1.5 C sugar<br />1 tsp baking soda<br />1 tsp salt<br />1 tsp cocoa powder<br />1.5 C vegetable oil<br />1 C buttermilk (or mix together 1 C milk and 1 T of vinegar)<br />2 large eggs<br />2 T red food coloring<br />1 tsp vinegar<br />1 tsp vanilla extract<br /><br /><strong>Cream Cheese Frosting:</strong><br />8 oz cream cheese, softened<br />1 stick (1/2 C) butter, softened<br />1 tsp vanilla extract<br />2 C powdered sugar</div><div><br /></div><p><strong>Directions:</strong><br />1) Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.<br />2) Sift together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.<br />3) Mix together vegetable oil, buttermilk, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract.<br />4) Combine wet and dry ingredients. Please watch as Laurie demonstrates:<br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370398141917779922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sod8qA9tV9I/AAAAAAAAAYw/hnxikyp6F-w/s400/Laurie+mixes+the+red.JPG" border="0" />5) Line a muffin tin with paper liners and bake in the oven for 20 minutes.<br />6) While the cupcakes are baking, cream the butter and cream cheese together. Add in the vanilla and gradually add the powdered sugar (sifted is better!).<br />7) For the baseballs: frost cupcakes in a dome-like fashion. Use a toothpick to drag the lines in your frosting. I used a size 2 tip to create the stitches in red:<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sod-9jV9buI/AAAAAAAAAZA/0oULY1UgjPQ/s1600-h/Dome+the+baseball.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370400676587073250" style="WIDTH: 165px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 124px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sod-9jV9buI/AAAAAAAAAZA/0oULY1UgjPQ/s200/Dome+the+baseball.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sod-Qi9uFLI/AAAAAAAAAY4/t3ul6UDtt4I/s1600-h/Draw+Lines+(2).JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370399903391290546" style="WIDTH: 167px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 123px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sod-Qi9uFLI/AAAAAAAAAY4/t3ul6UDtt4I/s200/Draw+Lines+(2).JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sod_OYUR7DI/AAAAAAAAAZI/oSuh9JM4vr8/s1600-h/Mark+Baseballs.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370400965685013554" style="WIDTH: 176px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 123px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sod_OYUR7DI/AAAAAAAAAZI/oSuh9JM4vr8/s200/Mark+Baseballs.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />8) For the cubcakes: I used <a href="http://www.wilton.com/recipe/Buttercream-Icing">Wilton's Buttercream Frosting</a> recipe for the red and blue colors. Frost the cupcakes in a flatter fashion. Draw the blue circle (I used a size 4 tip), the "C" (12 tip), and "ubs" (2 tip).<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoeA2_K0LlI/AAAAAAAAAZw/UycHA4ySGl8/s1600-h/Frosted+Red+Velvet.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370402762820693586" style="WIDTH: 169px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 131px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoeA2_K0LlI/AAAAAAAAAZw/UycHA4ySGl8/s200/Frosted+Red+Velvet.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sod_00VJAsI/AAAAAAAAAZY/nnKs8k7dpcs/s1600-h/Draw+blue+circle.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370401626039845570" style="WIDTH: 180px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 131px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sod_00VJAsI/AAAAAAAAAZY/nnKs8k7dpcs/s200/Draw+blue+circle.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoeABWcldZI/AAAAAAAAAZg/bGJqjwVg7z8/s1600-h/Draw+Cubs+C+(1).JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370401841356305810" style="WIDTH: 177px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 125px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoeABWcldZI/AAAAAAAAAZg/bGJqjwVg7z8/s200/Draw+Cubs+C+(1).JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoeBH-LkTBI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/oP8MkikE4j4/s1600-h/Sample.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370403054613187602" style="WIDTH: 180px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 131px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoeBH-LkTBI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/oP8MkikE4j4/s200/Sample.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div>9) Despite what team you enjoy, I assure you that these cubcakes are still delightful. :) </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-22076254697154641862009-08-08T07:42:00.000-07:002009-08-12T18:21:31.763-07:00Baby, baby!When do you start feeling less like a wannabe pastry chef rather and more like an actual pastry chef? I had a moment on Friday that made me feel more like the latter.<br /><br /><div><div><div></div><div>One of my friends who saw my pastries on facebook actually came over to my house to learn how to decorate cupcakes for a baby shower. Do you realize that it combines my love of teaching with my love of baking??<br /><br /></div><div>We made brownies from scratch (you'll have to ask <span style="color:#6600cc;">Tammy </span>for the recipe, I personally recommend the box version), yellow cake from the box, and of course, <a href="http://www.wilton.com/recipe/print/Buttercream-Icing"><span style="color:#3366ff;">wilton buttercream frosting</span></a>:</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369091890734915730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoLYoMGvYJI/AAAAAAAAAXw/s_Uc2dvc-7o/s400/Baby+Shower+Platter+(10).JPG" border="0" />My favorite were the brownie rattles. <span style="color:#6600cc;">Tammy</span> looked online and found the directions. Here's how you do it:</div><div><br /></div><p>1) Bake brownie mix as directed in a greased muffin pan (no liners).</p><p>2) Poke a small hole with a toothpick.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369186290506541458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoMue-qKKZI/AAAAAAAAAX4/Ollz_8oxkac/s400/1+Poke+hole+with+toothpick.JPG" border="0" /> 3) Insert a lollipop stick into the hole (you won't believe how much easier it is when you use the toothpick first).</p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369187308665986610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoMvaPmSXjI/AAAAAAAAAYA/z5HOe14NtwM/s400/2+Place+lollipop+sticks.JPG" border="0" /> 4) Tie an adorable bow around the lollipop stick.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369189134719877346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoMxEiLdgOI/AAAAAAAAAYY/Pkhw0r8LS40/s400/4+DSCN2612.JPG" border="0" />5) Stick a gumdrop (hehe, we used spice drops) on the bottom of the rattle.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369187636745053586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoMvtVybpZI/AAAAAAAAAYI/AqHZXBWyk-c/s400/5+Tie+bow.JPG" border="0" /> 6) Decorate as desired! This is the fun part!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369189914381539362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SoMxx6pSWCI/AAAAAAAAAYg/9nNy48oTNek/s400/Decorate+8+Rattles+(2).JPG" border="0" />Please note how much easier it is to take pictures when there is someone else! :)</div><div></div><div><em>**Special thanks to <span style="color:#6600cc;">Tammy </span>bringing such fun ideas and being up for decorating til 1am, and <span style="color:#009900;">Charles </span>for the cakelet pan!!**</em></div></div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-22820529641730310082009-08-04T20:14:00.000-07:002009-08-04T21:05:55.125-07:00It's time for key lime.By the end of this post, you will learn how I made:<br /><br /><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366324173210721426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnkDZ03RHJI/AAAAAAAAAXg/cs3HQ0ESCPQ/s320/White+Chocolate+Key+Lime+Cupcakes+(21).JPG" border="0" />But of course, like everything else in my life, this cupcake has a story.<br /><br />Awhile back, my darling friends threw me a Disney-themed birthday party. It was like a pop-up video of Disney-filled fun facts (which Ritu so lovingly printed in the DISNEY font, see below).<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366322079081368306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 67px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnkBf7n7CvI/AAAAAAAAAXI/WeRZ1p8yQXM/s200/disney.gif" border="0" />It was at that moment when I learned that Walt Disney's favorite dessert was Key Lime Pie. Did you know that was my favorite dessert too (and Harry's and Ellen's)??? Perhaps there is a deeper connection here. </div><br /><div>In any case, <a href="http://hannahdays.wordpress.com/"><span style="color:#ff6666;">Hannah</span></a> and <span style="color:#009900;">Nathan </span>took it upon themselves to surprise me with the sweetest birthday surprise ever: Key Lime Cupcakes. It was so perfect, because this was the year when school actually started ON my birthday. Imagine: <em>"Hi I'm Ms. Horng, and I will be your math teacher....hey it's my birthday!" </em>Um...not as fun as it sounds, until you get a special delivery of cupcakes!</div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnkA3NaesgI/AAAAAAAAAW4/c58FvfjZFTE/s1600-h/Fun+with+Jen%27s+Bday.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366321379482186242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnkA3NaesgI/AAAAAAAAAW4/c58FvfjZFTE/s200/Fun+with+Jen%27s+Bday.jpg" border="0" /></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366321476507322034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 114px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 152px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnkA823ExrI/AAAAAAAAAXA/M4UYKE215ys/s200/Surprise+Cupcakes.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>So when limes were on sale at the grocery store, I took it upon myself to try their recipe. I used the recipe <a href="http://hannahdays.wordpress.com/"><span style="color:#ff6666;">Hannah</span></a> and <span style="color:#009900;">Nathan</span> adapted from <a href="http://www.cakebatterandcrumbs.com/2009/03/key-lime-cupcakes.html">Cake Batter and Crumbs</a>. </div><br /><div><em>Note: I would have added more photos, but I live by myself and realized that taking photos of myself baking requires more than two hands!</em><br /></div><strong></strong><br /><br /><div><strong>24 White Chocolate Key Lime Cupcakes<br /></strong>2 1/3 C all purpose flour<br />1 T baking powder<br />3/4 t salt<br />1 1/2 C sugar<br />1/2 C shortening<br />2 eggs<br />1 C milk<br />1 tsp vanilla extract<br />2 T sour cream<br />1 package instant white chocolate pudding mix<br />2 T fresh lime juice (1-2 small limes)<br />1 T lime zest</div><br /><br /><p><strong>Key Lime Cream Filling and Topping<br /></strong>28 oz (2 cans) sweetened condensed milk<br />2/3 C lime juice (about 4-5 small limes)<br />1/2 C graham cracker crumbs (or vanilla wafers if you want it to be sweeter)<br />Whipped Cream (if desired)<br />1-2 limes, sliced for decoration </p><br /><p><strong>Directions:<br /></strong>1) Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and instant pudding.<br />2) Cut up the shortening and mix it into the dry ingredients until fine crumbs are formed.<br />3) Add eggs, milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract.<br />4) Fold in the lime zest and lime juice.<br />5) Bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees. Let the cupcakes cool before filling them.<br />6) Cut out a hole for your cream filling. I use a wilton 4B tip to cut out the middle; Hannah and Nathan used an apple corer. Either way, it works! </p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Snj9Y0Z-FVI/AAAAAAAAAWY/U-fS87nNw7Y/s1600-h/White+Chocolate+Key+Lime+Cupcakes+(5).JPG"></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366325509703188850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnkEnnr5wXI/AAAAAAAAAXo/ZUFZMatI6O0/s200/White+Chocolate+Key+Lime+Cupcakes+(5).JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366318010003531362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Snj9zFIKpmI/AAAAAAAAAWg/EkseqoffDvY/s200/White+Chocolate+Key+Lime+Cupcakes+(6).JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366318370177697554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Snj-IC4YRxI/AAAAAAAAAWo/8Pq-sYFXGRo/s200/White+Chocolate+Key+Lime+Cupcakes+(8).JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div>7) Fill 'er up!<br />8) Top with whipped cream, or graham cracker or lime slice. Enjoy!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366323763385067218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnkDB-JN5tI/AAAAAAAAAXY/Qo9PtK8Vjkk/s320/White+Chocolate+Key+Lime+Cupcakes+(9).JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-17805130750381588212009-07-31T07:39:00.000-07:002009-08-02T13:30:42.628-07:00Chocolate Cream-Filled Cupcakes<div><p>My friend and co-worker, <span style="color:#3366ff;">Laurie</span>, just came back from her honeymoon, today is her birthday, and she needs to prepare for her half marathon on Sunday. Go figure, the first thing I thought to do for the girl was bake her something. <em>Of course, as suggested by one of my readers, I will also include the recipe (Thanks, math buddy!).<br /></em><br />The creation: <strong><em>Chocolate Cream-Filled Cupcakes</em></strong>! Thank you, <a href="http://www.averagebetty.com/?p=130"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Average Betty</span></a> for the delicious idea/recipe!</p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnPGF_zxEfI/AAAAAAAAAV4/tbNKFakWq6M/s1600-h/Pudding+Filled+Chocolate+Cupcakes+(4).JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364849387458597362" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnPGF_zxEfI/AAAAAAAAAV4/tbNKFakWq6M/s320/Pudding+Filled+Chocolate+Cupcakes+(4).JPG" border="0" /></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364850910531125058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnPHepsjf0I/AAAAAAAAAWA/E2zoKjuLQf0/s320/Pudding+Filled+Chocolate+Cupcakes+(19).JPG" border="0" /> <p><em>Note: The only alteration I made to the recipe was that I used JELLO pudding (since I had it and it is much less complicated than making your own pudding), and I used the wilton recipe for the frosting.</em></p><p><strong>Ingredients for 12 chocolate cupcakes:<br /></strong>1 cup all-purpose flour<br />1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />1/2 cup butter, softened (1 stick)<br />3/4 cup granulated sugar<br />1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar<br />2 large eggs, at room temperature<br />3 1/2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate, melted<br />1/2 cup buttermilk<br />1 teaspoon vanilla extract</p><p><strong>Chocolate Fudge Pudding:<br /></strong>1 packet of JELLO Chocolate Fudge Instant Pudding<br />2 C cold milk, as directed on package.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.wilton.com/recipe/print/Buttercream-Icing"><span style="color:#009900;">Buttercream Frosting</span></a> </strong>(by Wilton)<strong>:<br /></strong>1/2 C Solid Vegetable Shortening<br />1/2 C (1 stick) butter, softened<br />1 tsp vanilla extract<br />4 C powdered sugar<br />2 T milk</p><p><strong>Directions:<br /></strong>1) Whisk your instant pudding and milk until it becomes creamy. Set aside.<br />2) Cream together butter and sugars. Gradually add the eggs, melted chocolate, and vanilla.<br />3) In a separate bowl, mix the flour and baking soda. Fold this dry mixture into the wet mixture. 4) Fold in the buttermilk.<br />5) Line cupcake molds with paper liners and fill the cups with the batter (mine made 14 cupcakes!).<br />6) Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 20 minutes.<br />7) Cut a valley into the center of each cupcake. Fill the valley with pudding, and place the part you cut out back in to the cupcake.<br />8) Frost the cupcake with buttercream frosting. Top with sprinkles, if desired. :)</p><p>I have some extra, if you wish to try some ;)</p></div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-78296046581605430642009-07-30T16:45:00.000-07:002009-07-30T21:49:32.673-07:00Happy Birthday, Baby!For those of you who have known me for more than a year, you will know that I had a <strong><em>very long relationship</em></strong> with a beloved friend I called Winterfresh (since I was very little, my family started calling our cars by gum flavors/brands. I was the only one to continue this trend).<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364405090983869938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnIyAidj_fI/AAAAAAAAAU4/ubqYDxJ0wAk/s400/DSCN0540.JPG" border="0" /> I was only 4 years older than Winterfresh, and we shared many memories together. Here was one of our last moments:<br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364405703452730530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnIykMFhJKI/AAAAAAAAAVA/x2IJhMbtQj8/s400/DSCN0542.JPG" border="0" /> Now if you asked any of my friends, they would tell you about the many frustrating times when Winterfresh had left me hanging. Hence, I was forced to add to my "to-do" list at work (note how one of my students added "cool" to it):<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364471033943951714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 397px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 297px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnJt-7IaCWI/AAAAAAAAAVY/kRmD6HdmcY8/s400/RSCN0380.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div>Finally, after three years:</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364470003722519794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnJtC9QehPI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/Cn7VUNxsB68/s400/Celebrating+with+Johny.JPG" border="0" /> And after one year: <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364423060077578066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SnJCWejWh1I/AAAAAAAAAVI/0Oga8yR-BBw/s400/1st+Bday+Gift+(1).JPG" border="0" /> Happy Birthday, Baby!! I figured, if this one lasts as long as Winterfresh, we'll be celebrating many birthdays together. So I had to buy my baby a birthday present. He smells nice now. All I have to say is…Cherish the moments, people. :)</div></div></div></div></div></div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-37577009625635541102009-07-25T08:05:00.001-07:002009-07-25T10:00:29.372-07:00And then there were frogs.I don't consider myself a super girly girl (despite the asian Elle Woods reference). After the Christmas in July party, however, I pulled out girliness I didn't even know I had.<br /><br /><br />Janina and I were driving home from Ellie's when I saw something hopping across the street. "Oh Janina, look how cute! It's a little frog," I exclaimed. Little did we know...<br /><br /><p>As I approached my driveway, I was stopped in the middle of the road by a frog. When I turned to get into my driveway, I was greeted by yet another frog. However, this time, the frog was STARING AT ME (cue psycho music!). I'm pretty sure this is where I lost my mind. Wouldn't you???<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362424668078638994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Smso0wOeh5I/AAAAAAAAAUw/RN-1iNvlimA/s200/atv_frog.jpg" border="0" /><em>(No, I did not take this picture! Are you kidding? I was too busy screaming.)</em></p>At this point, Janina and I were hysterical. After a few minutes, the frog finally moved enough so I could get into my garage without crushing it.<br /><br />Janina and I screamed a few more times even IN the house, at which point I didn't know how Janina was going to get home. I mean, how was she going to get to her car with all the frogs hopping all over the place??<br /><br />The next part of the story could come straight from a fairy tale book. Janina and I called our "Knight in Shining armor" to come and save us: Charles Stephens. Thankfully, he had just finished small group when I called him hysterically. I'm pretty sure I was yelling into the phone when I called him, but I was relieved when his response was "I'll be right over." In my defense, I'm pretty sure I have never done this before...<br /><br />Hehe Charles kept us company for a few hours while we sat and ate some banana bread inside the house, away from the frogs. Like the gentleman that he is, he escorted Janina to her car at the end of the night (while scouting for any frogs).<br /><br /><strong>Needless to say, Janina and I bring a new level to "damsel in distress." </strong><br /><br />The next morning, I spent some time staring at my driveway from my room. Were there frogs? There were a few times when I was staring at some leaves, thinking that I had smashed a frog last night with my car.<br /><br />Charles stopped by with some fresh flowers and peaches from the farmer's market (check out the flower with the red stem - so intense!):<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362421953788253170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsmWwtOE_I/AAAAAAAAAUo/_8tbO_Ayxis/s200/Post+Frog+Flowers+(1).JPG" border="0" /> Hehe...this is what they call "the follow up" to make sure that the hysterical person is doing better. I think I am back to my old self again, though <span style="color:#3366ff;">Fishie</span> (bloop bloop!) thinks I am definitely frog phobic.Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-44334159289429042022009-07-24T22:06:00.000-07:002009-07-25T08:02:04.747-07:00Best Christmas EVER.<div>Ever since I was young, I didn't find Christmas particularly "asian" in my household. We put up a Christmas tree every year and placed presents underneath. I also went through the phase where I kept asking Mommy questions about Santa. For instance: "Why does santa's little helper have the same handwriting as you, Mommy?" What can I say? The logic started at a young age.<br /></div><br /><div><a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Ellie</span></a> hosted a Christmas in July party for me tonight. It was more asian than I could ever have imagined. </div><br /><div>Here were the crafty culprits:</div><br /><div>"I can always find the scissors" Brenda and "I've got the best sense of asian humor" Kathy:<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmqbDYDmueI/AAAAAAAAAS4/WU8waI9JLOQ/s1600-h/Brenda+J+Kathy.JPG"></a> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362410269009557330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Smsbung4t1I/AAAAAAAAAUY/oiB1QFQlfxk/s200/Brenda+J+Kathy.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><em>Oh my cow, Kathy is a genius with felt, chopsticks, and permanent markers:</em></div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsbpElBdnI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/ClHV65p8c-w/s1600-h/End+Products.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362410173732320882" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 182px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 135px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsbpElBdnI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/ClHV65p8c-w/s200/End+Products.JPG" border="0" /></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362409985664797522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 180px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 132px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsbeH-Oy1I/AAAAAAAAAUI/zd9CR5kQPto/s200/Kathy%27s+Calligraphy+Ornaments+(4).JPG" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><div>"I was an art major" Jen (how did I not know this??) and "I'm magical with the paintbrush" Janet:</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362409095026471650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsaqSFgcuI/AAAAAAAAAUA/izkSgAxrOog/s200/J+Janet+Jen.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><em>(Most of what these two made are still drying at Ellie's house; Janet's still making a bunch at her own house too!)</em></div><br /><div>"I look great in glitter" Jackie: </div><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362405243611850770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsXKGctKBI/AAAAAAAAATQ/5QTXZck4O2Q/s200/Jackie+J.JPG" border="0" /> <em>(I'm pretty sure Jackie got more glitter on her face than her ornaments; I couldn't take her seriously all night because all I could see was glitter!!)</em></p><div>"I'm only considered not crafty because you're comparing me to my super crafty friends" <a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Ellie</span></a>: </div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsXh1xZE6I/AAAAAAAAATY/889XWcOnJcM/s1600-h/Kid+friendly+heart+ornament+by+Ellie.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362405651452072866" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 185px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 136px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsXh1xZE6I/AAAAAAAAATY/889XWcOnJcM/s200/Kid+friendly+heart+ornament+by+Ellie.JPG" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362405782396225474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 182px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 133px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsXpdk6R8I/AAAAAAAAATg/3SDbqBgkcC8/s200/Ellie%27s+Hearts.JPG" border="0" /> <div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em><a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Ellie</span></a> made angels and hearts; I like to call the angels "<a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Ellie</span></a>'s Angels". Nice, right? :)</em><br /><br /></div><div>"I can beat Jeanette in a bead/wire making race any day" Janina:</div><div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsY7mzYB9I/AAAAAAAAATw/r6szjE4QrOE/s1600-h/Janina+and+banana+muffin.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362407193622087634" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsY7mzYB9I/AAAAAAAAATw/r6szjE4QrOE/s200/Janina+and+banana+muffin.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362406609721526722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmsYZnmoicI/AAAAAAAAATo/hR1t1_odiXQ/s200/Dangling+Ornaments.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p><br /><br /><br /><em>She and I were making those cute dangling icicle ornaments - I wore them as earrings for most of the night:</em></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362412419760247138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Smsdrzrz0WI/AAAAAAAAAUg/O35zQxICAbg/s200/Dangling+Ornaments+as+Earrings.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p>and...."I've got the giggles"Judy and "I should write with glue all day" Amy Rae (unfortunately not photographed because they left too early!! Next time, ladies :))</p><div>I can't wait to have a Christmas party at my house for the ladies to see their beautiful work!! Thank you all, the ornaments were perfect and lovely! :D</div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-64215791611429004372009-07-23T23:30:00.000-07:002009-07-24T00:07:45.475-07:00I am a karaoke junkie.Life would not be the same without karaoke. This may lead you to believe that I am filipino (call it a blanket statement, but all two of my filipie friends have their own karaoke machines with the fancy microphone remote control).<br /><div><br /></div><div><span style="color:#666666;"><span style="color:#000099;">Flashback: </span>Kuya</span> and <span style="color:#009900;">David</span> sing "Backstreet's Back" as Maryjoy and I scream from the "floor":</div><div><br /></div><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361912916451580018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmlXY42s2HI/AAAAAAAAASg/UzOoRWuWxtI/s200/Backstreet+Boys+2.JPG" border="0" /></p><div><br /></div><p>I had a couple asian moments today at karaoke. </p><p><strong>Moment 1:</strong> Standing on my chair to notice I WAS THE ONLY ASIAN at the bar! I believe the phrase, token asian, was used.</p><p><strong>Moment 2:</strong> I was called an asian Elle Woods. We even did the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYkawsbgNl4&feature=PlayList&p=EC8B34DA00220DA4&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=52"><span style="color:#ff6666;">bend and snap</span></a>! Do we see the resemblance?</p><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmlaZxP14OI/AAAAAAAAASo/UtTM2RtwFPA/s1600-h/a971i0_ec.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361916230124298466" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 161px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 129px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmlaZxP14OI/AAAAAAAAASo/UtTM2RtwFPA/s200/a971i0_ec.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361916400949192162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 164px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 122px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Smlajtnq5eI/AAAAAAAAASw/s_GWJNEN-P0/s200/RSCN2383.JPG" border="0" /><br />I'm just sad I won't be able to make it on Saturday! Have fun without me, gang! :)Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-20384850331998417192009-07-21T20:08:00.000-07:002009-07-22T17:21:47.080-07:00Giant is better.<div align="center">When I was a kid, I used to think everything in a miniature version was cuter. </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Jerome vs. Jerome Junior: </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361440569261769074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Smepyqc3QXI/AAAAAAAAASA/-32g7PLxl0k/s320/Jerome+and+Jerome+Junior+(1).JPG" border="0" /><br /><p align="center">Siblings: (we like to say, "what happened to us??")<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmeqJ_YJfLI/AAAAAAAAASI/hc1hEtYy36k/s1600-h/Baby_E_and_J.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361440970016128178" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 160px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 121px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmeqJ_YJfLI/AAAAAAAAASI/hc1hEtYy36k/s320/Baby_E_and_J.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmeqVgZ3qQI/AAAAAAAAASQ/DX-XVcIuzXo/s1600-h/Siblings+2.JPG"></a><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361443257047764594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmesPHO-znI/AAAAAAAAASY/Vb4KE381RMo/s200/Siblings+2.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center">Today, we defied the idea that smaller is cuter. Thank you, <a href="http://www.wilton.com/store/site/product.cfm?id=4018F320-423B-522D-F5ECDA6F3A2ABB5E&killnav=1"><span style="color:#3333ff;">Wilton</span></a>, for your giant cupcake pan. Here is a double chip giant chocolate cupcake that I made for Charles Stephens.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmaGE97yUPI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/NFMZPgofadQ/s1600-h/DSCN2354.JPG"></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361120119650358738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmaGWCn1ldI/AAAAAAAAARA/plda1F_UUWs/s400/DSCN2353.JPG" border="0" /> I'm not gonna lie - this was more complicated than it looks! Being my first attempt with the pan, I think I have many more ideas on how to make it better next time. :) Again, so much to look forward to!! :)</p>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-5340836542235423882009-07-20T22:23:00.001-07:002009-07-21T11:32:52.998-07:00A little something extraRemember in <span style="color:#ff6666;">Legally Blonde</span> when Elle prints her resume on scented pink paper? She justifies it by saying, "I think it gives it a little something extra!" Get ready for my something extra.<br /><br /><br />So, <a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Ellen</span></a> is the only person that has commented on my blog. I'm saying this not because I am angry, but because something hilarious (and asian) has come of it.<br /><br /><br />Look below. It says "1 comments" where she left not two, not three, but ONE comment. One singular comment. You may not know this, but several asians unintentially add an unnecessary "s" at the end of words (or, in other cases, omit s's).<br /><br /><br />Example: We need to go to Menard to buy some paints.<br /><em>Translation: We need to go to <a href="http://www.menards.com/"><span style="color:#009900;">Menards</span></a> to buy some paint.</em><br /><br /><br />That's SO asian...and I love it. :)Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-53294178608630237732009-07-19T21:48:00.000-07:002009-07-19T22:20:09.765-07:00Teal Brownie Hearts<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmP-gbafa4I/AAAAAAAAAQw/t9IxTCXMemw/s1600-h/Teal+Brownie+Hearts+(1).JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360407814569159554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmP-gbafa4I/AAAAAAAAAQw/t9IxTCXMemw/s320/Teal+Brownie+Hearts+(1).JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="color:#000099;">Almost a year ago, I took it upon myself to bake something for everybody's birthdays at work. It gave me a reason to bake when I had the urge to do so, and it also gave me an "out" to try out some cool recipes. <em><span style="font-size:85%;">Unfortunately, I don't think I can continue this tradition for much longer...I wish everybody had summer birthdays!</span><br /></em><br />Lately, <span style="color:#00cccc;">T<span style="color:#663333;">r</span>a<span style="color:#663333;">c</span>y</span> has gotten a kick out of the teal/chocolate brown combination. Anytime you would pass a dress, sheets, napkins, plates, etc with those colors, she would love it! Needless to say, I made brownie cupcakes with that same theme (inspired by <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/our-best-cupcakes">Martha Stewart</a>). </span><span style="color:#000099;">Cute, no? </span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">I have a few more birthdays this week, so we will see what I can do next. Ideas?? :)</span></div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-29492840366209853552009-07-18T00:08:00.001-07:002009-07-18T00:19:34.086-07:00Do the math and save<span style="color:#000099;">I heart math. <em><span style="color:#ff0000;">(cue: That's so asian!)</span></em> Walmart shares my love for math. I <strong><em>promise</em></strong> I had nothing to do with their advertising.</span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359694044678229938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmF1VjXSj7I/AAAAAAAAAP4/Opdua9RIu_Y/s320/Walmart+Do+the+Math.JPG" border="0" /> <span style="color:#000099;">Despite the shock and dreaded reality of back-to-school sales, I didn't mind this one at all. </span>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-14757924863085740302009-07-16T22:53:00.000-07:002009-07-19T22:40:41.258-07:00Everybody has a story<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmAUkIcR9GI/AAAAAAAAAPc/Lgt-ZW04tJM/s1600-h/DSCN2279.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359306167544837218" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmAUkIcR9GI/AAAAAAAAAPc/Lgt-ZW04tJM/s200/DSCN2279.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#000099;">Today, I met a non-math teacher/non-math geek who voluntarily wore an "I heart math" shirt. Did you just read what I wrote? ...A non-math person hearting math. It's like that m&m commercial when the m&m meets Santa and says, "they DO exist!" (faint).</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;"><span style="color:#009900;">Joelle</span>, my new karaoke buddy, openly told me how much she uses math in her life even though she is in marketing. I had to take a picture to prove to my students that someone like this truly exists. Gracious, I look forward to more karaoke outings...for serious.</span><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmAWy-BrY8I/AAAAAAAAAPo/GaG6oEtGhy0/s1600-h/DSCN2272.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359308621470196674" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmAWy-BrY8I/AAAAAAAAAPo/GaG6oEtGhy0/s200/DSCN2272.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Ellie</span></a> <span style="color:#000099;"><em>(red because I love it when she paints her nails red)</em> and I have a great story too. She came up to me after church one day and asked if I wanted to sit at her "lunch table". We sat, we ate, we talked, Amy spilled (hehe), and she has flagged me over to sit by her in church ever since. I never thanked her for that, but that made me not want to church hop anymore. Thanks <a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">E</span></a> :)</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmAm8enOm0I/AAAAAAAAAPw/O2NssXSzhJ0/s1600-h/DSCN2270.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359326377022495554" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/SmAm8enOm0I/AAAAAAAAAPw/O2NssXSzhJ0/s200/DSCN2270.JPG" border="0" /></a>Along came</span> <span style="color:#3333ff;">Bradford </span><span style="color:#000099;"><em>(he felt blue today, but I'm hoping karaoke cheered him up). </em>I love Bradford because he's an electrician, doctor, financial specialist, father, haggler, counselor, and friend. Today, I got to see the "clown" side of <span style="color:#3333ff;">Bradford </span></span><span style="color:#000099;">(he's on the right in the picture to the left, next to John!). Sheer genius! </span><br /><span style="color:#000099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Parts of me think that <span style="color:#ff0000;"><a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Ellie</span></a> </span>and <span style="color:#3333ff;">Bradford </span>are part asian. Have you ever been to an asian dinner when EVERYBODY is embarrassingly fighting to pay the bill? Today, <span style="color:#ff0000;"><a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Ellie</span></a> </span>and <span style="color:#3333ff;">Bradford</span> stealthfully paid for my dinner before I could thank them (Thank you!). Perchance they are of the more eloquent and elegant asian variety. </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">P.S. Another shout out to <a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Ellie</span></a>, who inspired me to change my blog to be "That's so asian!". It melds the ideas of Disney and Chinese all together in one! That's pretty much me in a nutshell. Kudos, <a href="http://ellieisanewthing.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">E</span></a>. :)</span>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-957930571616925428.post-20940057903341424502009-07-15T08:40:00.000-07:002009-07-19T22:26:03.998-07:00The Dawn of a New Era<div><font face="lucida grande" color="#000066">For awhile, I thought that blogs were for people who had too much time. I am totally wrong! It's for people who have interesting things to say and want to share it. If you have met me, I'm hoping you think that I am one of those interesting people. You just can't help but say, "Gosh, that Jeanette...now <em>she's</em> an interesting asian".<br /><br />This reminds me of my best friend, <a href="http://hannahdays.wordpress.com/"><font color="#ff6666">Hannah</font></a>. She and I always enjoyed our conversations so much that we thought it best to share them with the world via an amusing reality show. Truthfully, I think we never followed through with the idea because of those moments when we are laying on the floor with the TV on, doing nothing. We thought it best not to share these moments...perchance until now. :0O<br /><br /></font><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sl38SSym2dI/AAAAAAAAAO8/FQ-WyarwuiQ/s1600-h/90108.jpg"><font face="lucida grande" color="#000066"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358716522852702674" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 123px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 127px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sl38SSym2dI/AAAAAAAAAO8/FQ-WyarwuiQ/s200/90108.jpg" border="0" /></font></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sl364Ik9LOI/AAAAAAAAAO0/i9N4y4veIok/s1600-h/yum.jpg"><font face="lucida grande" color="#000066"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358714973922864354" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 126px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 123px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_59bjd_v7PLg/Sl364Ik9LOI/AAAAAAAAAO0/i9N4y4veIok/s320/yum.jpg" border="0" /></font></a><font face="lucida grande" color="#000066"> Originally, I wanted to start a blog so that I could get my baked goods on </font><a href="http://www.tastespotting.com/"><font face="lucida grande" color="#3333ff">http://www.tastespotting.com/</font></a><font color="#000066"><font face="lucida grande">. How can you resist pictures of yummy looking foods?<br /><br />Needless to say, you have many things to look forward to. </font><3</font></div>Jeanette Hornghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389004347479121247noreply@blogger.com0